Your heart works around the clock, and understanding its rhythm can be an important part of staying informed about your health.
Atrial fibrillation, commonly called AFib, is an irregular heart rhythm. While some people may notice symptoms, others may not experience noticeable signs at all. Becoming familiar with your heart rhythm and regularly monitoring your blood pressure can provide useful information to discuss with your healthcare provider.
Learn more about AFib awareness and at-home monitoring at Wellwise.ca.
Here are a few things to know about AFib, blood pressure monitoring, and making heart health awareness part of your routine.
Understanding AFib
Atrial fibrillation is a type of irregular heart rhythm in which the upper chambers of the heart beat irregularly.
AFib is associated with an increased risk of stroke and other cardiovascular complications. Because symptoms can vary from person to person - and AFib may sometimes occur without noticeable symptoms - awareness and appropriate monitoring can be important.
If you have concerns about your heart rhythm or cardiovascular health, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.
Know Your Rhythm. Know Your Numbers.
Blood pressure and heart rhythm provide different information about your cardiovascular health.
Regular blood pressure monitoring can help you become more familiar with your usual readings and provide information that may be useful when speaking with your healthcare provider.
Some home blood pressure monitors also include AFib screening features designed to identify an indicator when signs of atrial fibrillation are detected during a measurement.
An AFib screening feature does not provide a diagnosis. Any irregular or unexpected results should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.
Make At-Home Monitoring Part of Your Routine
Monitoring at home can make it easier to keep track of your blood pressure over time.
For a more consistent routine:
- Choose a regular time to take your readings.
- Sit comfortably and remain still during the measurement.
- Position the cuff according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Keep a record of your results when appropriate.
- Share relevant readings or concerns with your healthcare provider.
Always follow the instructions provided with your blood pressure monitor and any monitoring recommendations from your healthcare professional.
Look Beyond a Single Reading
One blood pressure measurement provides information about a particular moment. Keeping track of readings over time can provide a broader picture.
Some blood pressure monitors offer memory or averaging functions that can make it easier to review previous measurements and identify changes to discuss with your healthcare provider.
The BIOS Diagnostics Ultra Blood Pressure Monitor with Atrial Fibrillation Screening, for example, screens for signs of atrial fibrillation during a blood pressure measurement and can store up to 200 readings for one user.
Explore the BIOS Diagnostics Ultra Blood Pressure Monitor with Atrial Fibrillation Screening.
What Should You Do if an AFib Indicator Appears?
An AFib screening indicator is not the same as a medical diagnosis.
If your monitor repeatedly identifies a possible irregular rhythm, or if you have concerns about your readings or symptoms, speak with a qualified healthcare professional. They can determine whether further assessment is appropriate.
Seek immediate medical attention for symptoms that may indicate a medical emergency, such as chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or signs of stroke.
Small Habits Can Help You Stay Informed
Heart health awareness doesn't have to be complicated.
Learning about your blood pressure, becoming familiar with your heart rhythm, keeping appropriate records, and discussing changes with your healthcare provider can all help you take a more informed role in your health.
The goal of at-home monitoring isn't to diagnose yourself. It's to provide information that can support conversations with your healthcare team.
Know Your Rhythm. Know Your Numbers.
National Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Awareness Month is an opportunity to learn more about heart rhythm awareness and the role appropriate at-home monitoring can play in helping you stay informed.
Learn more about AFib awareness and at-home monitoring at Wellwise.ca.
Looking for At-Home Monitoring Solutions?
The Wellwise® team can help you explore blood pressure monitors and other home health solutions based on your individual needs.
Explore at-home monitoring solutions at Wellwise.ca or visit your local Wellwise® store.
Quality care, trusted solutions.
The information presented in this blog post is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or counselling care. AFib screening features identify potential signs of atrial fibrillation and do not provide a diagnosis. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about your readings or any heart health concerns.
